Vehicular console with adjustably-mounted video display unit

Abstract

A console-stored video display unit is provided that can be extended to a viewing position wherein the video display unit is adjustable both about a vertical pivot axis as well as a horizontal pivot axis to allow tilting and other reorientation of the video display unit to provide for optimal viewing results by occupants of the passenger compartment of a vehicle. In addition, the video display unit, when extended to the viewing position, can be vertically adjusted to place the video display unit in an optimal viewing height for whatever the ergonomic considerations happen to be for occupants of the vehicle interior. The display unit also includes a console interface portion forming a smooth, aesthetically-pleasing surface for the console when the display unit is positioned in a retracted position within the console.

What is claimed is:  
     
       1. A console adapted to be mounted between a pair of front seats within a passenger compartment in a vehicle comprising: 
       a body mounted between a pair of front seats within the passenger compartment having an outer surface and defining at least one storage compartment with an opening in the outer surface, a first cover pivotally mounted to the body between a closed position and an open position, the cover being in register with the opening in the closed position and forming a flush outer appearance with the outer surface; and  
       a video display unit movably mounted to the first cover between a retracted position wherein the video display unit, with the first cover in a closed position, is enclosed within the storage compartment and an extended position wherein the video display unit extends beyond the outer surface;  
       said video display unit being positioned ergonomically for viewing by occupants of the vehicle when the video display unit is located in the extended position.  
     
     
       2. The console of  claim 1  wherein the video display unit is hinged to the first cover. 
     
     
       3. The console of  claim 2  where the hinge connecting the video display unit to the first cover is a damped hinge. 
     
     
       4. The console of  claim 1  wherein the video display unit in its extended position extends beyond a perimeter formed by the body of the console and the first cover in its open position. 
     
     
       5. The console of  claim 1  wherein the video display unit is removable so that it can be taken with passengers when they leave the vehicle.